Latina Leader Spotlight: Manda Hard
Q: Introduce yourself! Where do you live and what is your ethnic background?
A: My name is Manda , originally from a small town called , Athol, Massachusettes and now residing in Maine. I grew up being raised by my mother who is from Guadalajara Mexico and my Father who is from Upstate New York. Coming from a ethnic background really helped round my future and broaden my outlook on life. I was able to see two different cultures interacting with one another. It gave me a sense of understanding that there is a bigger world out there. And not to mention All the authentic Mexican food my mom would make! Yummy!
Q: Tell us about your creation:
A: I create empowering paintings and accessories inspired by women for women!
Q: What inspired you to start?
A: Growing up as a female in this world has its share of challenges. We go through many stages of life questioning who we should be. In many cases we are told who we are, and what we should become. Everyone of us shines differently. Beautiful, independent, and articulate inside and out.
Every day, all over the world, we are shattering glass ceilings. We run companies, perform life saving surgeries, and even lead countries. We dedicate ourselves to others in so many ways, pouring every bit of ourselves into things that matter the most. We create loving families, loving homes, and positive futures.
I began to paint to show the world what I saw in women. Coming in all shapes and sizes, all walks of life; I saw women expressing themselves beautifully. I wanted to bring that to light through my own journey and through my art. The first girl I painted was Toxic Girl. This was during my transition from High School to College. She represents strength and courage. Never afraid of difficult situations, but always protecting the girl inside. She became a piece of many in my path of life.
Over the years, I painted one girl after another. Each one representing something special in someone. I brought forth new girls through color, and canvas, one after another. Personalities, and passions came to life through the paint brush. I felt this was something the world needed to see. I wanted to share my art with as many women as I could, to uplift and bring self empowerment. I wanted others to see the beauty I saw within themselves. Thus Penny Prints was created.
Penny Prints is an online store offering expressive art prints, accessories & apparel. Our mission was to empower women through art. “Be you, anytime, anywhere”, became our mantra as a reminder for women to know they can be who they are freely. Every piece of artwork is a unique statement to ones individuality. I wanted to create products that offered utility, as well as expression.
Q: Who is your Latina inspiration?
A: There are so many inspiring Latina women its hard to choose. We have Selena who broke barriers in the music industry, to Frida Kahlo, whose art is still inspiring others to this day and Sylvia Rivera who put the “T” in LGBT activism. Just a few of many inspiring Latinas!
Q: What do you want other Latina creators to know?
A: I want other Latina creators to know that anything you put your mind to is possible. Share your culture with others around you, embrace who you are and your journey in life. Us Latinas are passionate and strong spirited. Apply that strength to your life and every day living!
Q: Any upcoming big announcements we should stay tuned for?
A: I will be launching a whole new collection this summer with new accessories and product designs! Keep your eyes open for the new arrivals!! As I know there will be something special for you or your loved ones!
Q: How can people support/keep up with you?
A: supporting one another is what makes the world go round . You can follow my empowering journey on:
Instagram - @mandahard and @pennyprints4you
TikTok - Manda Hard
If you enjoy my art and would like to see the different collections and fun accessories you can visit my website at www.penny-prints.com
